# ISDIN Retinal Intense Serum for combination skin

**Lovi Fit: Average fit for combination skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: Average · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for Italy.

Brand: [ISDIN](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/brands/isdin)
Category: [Serums and treatments](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/best/serums)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with combination skin: an oily T-zone, enlarged pores, and dry cheeks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

Works for combination skin; other serums fit it better.

## Why this fit

- Offers moderate benefits for your combination skin, as glycerin and niacinamide provide hydration and oil control to help manage oily shine. Retinaldehyde and bakuchiol work to minimize fine lines and wrinkles, offering general skincare improvements.
- The formula is highly suitable for combination skin due to niacinamide's seboregulation and retinaldehyde's desquamation regulation, which are beneficial for your skin concerns.
- The safety profile is excellent, with no risks of irritation for your combination skin due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/oily-skin): Average
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/dry-skin): Low
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin): Average (this page)
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/sensitive-skin): Average
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/acne-prone-skin): High
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/mature-skin): Average
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Low
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Average

## Key ingredients

Retinaldehyde, Niacinamide, Bakuchiol, Tocopherol, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7

## What the research says

- Topical bakuchiol 0.5% applied twice daily compared with retinol 0.5% applied daily significantly decreased wrinkle surface area and hyperpigmentation with no statistical difference between the compounds in 44 patients over 12 weeks, while retinol users reported more facial skin scaling and stinging. ([The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/))
- A single application of a moisturizing fluid containing hyaluronic acid 1%, glycerin 5%, and Centella asiatica stem cells extract significantly increased skin hydration by 29% and reduced transepidermal water loss at 24 hours compared to baseline and an untreated control site in twenty healthy women. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/))
- Twice daily application of retinaldehyde 0.1% and 0.05% creams for 3 months improved skin texture and hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss in 40 female Korean volunteers, with only the 0.1% cream significantly improving the melanin index. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29663701/))
- Topical retinaldehyde demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against gram-positive bacteria both in vitro and in vivo, leading to decreased bacterial counts without inducing resistance. ([Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12218231/))
- Topical 0.05% retinaldehyde applied over 1 year significantly increased epidermal thickness of the temple and cutaneous elasticity compared to an emollient control group in 40 aging skin patients. ([Dermatology, 1999](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10473959/))
- Topical post-laser application of human adipocyte-derived mesenchymal stem cell media combined with niacinamide significantly improved wrinkle index, melanin index, patient satisfaction, and investigator esthetic improvement scores compared to vehicle cream in patients with aging skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103316/))
- Topical nicotinamide prevented solar-simulated UV-induced immunosuppression in healthy volunteers, and men experienced immunosuppression at solar-simulated UV doses three times lower than those required for women. ([The Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 2008](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17882270/))
- Topical 5% niacinamide applied twice daily for 12 weeks reduced fine lines and wrinkles, hyperpigmented spots, red blotchiness, and skin sallowness, and improved skin elasticity compared to vehicle control in 50 female white subjects with facial photoaging. ([Dermatologic Surgery, 2005](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16029679/))
- A dermocosmetic containing bakuchiol, Ginkgo biloba extract, and mannitol improves inflammatory lesions, Investigator Global Assessment, and seborrhea intensity when added to adapalene 0.1% gel in patients with acne vulgaris. ([Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25914553/))
- Topical application of a serum containing supramolecular Bakuchiol and Terminalia chebula extract significantly improved barrier function, reduced redness and sensitivity, and improved wrinkles and elasticity in 34 Chinese subjects with sensitive skin after 28 days. ([Health Science Reports, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/41424674/))
- Bakuchiol functions as an anti-aging compound through retinol-like regulation of gene expression, producing significant improvements in lines, wrinkles, pigmentation, elasticity, firmness, and photo-damage after 12 weeks of twice-a-day facial application without usual retinol therapy-associated undesirable effects. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24471735/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant serum containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented particulate matter-induced degradation of extracellular matrix components, inflammation, and oxidative stress in the skin of 15 female volunteers compared to untreated controls. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40642809/))
- Dermatological products containing d-alpha tocopheryl acetate showed non-comedogenic potential with less than a 50% increase in microcomedones in 12 healthy male subjects compared to octyl palmitate. ([Contemporary Clinical Trials Communications, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34471722/))
- Topical application of an antioxidant mix containing 15% ascorbic acid, 0.5% ferulic acid, and 1% tocopherol prevented PM and UV-induced skin barrier perturbation, lipid peroxidation, inflammatory markers, MMP9 activation, and Type I collagen loss in 15 healthy females compared to untreated exposed skin. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590207/))
- A multi-modal methodology combining MALDI-MSI, in vivo RCM, echography, and histology revealed age-related decreases in extracellular matrix and epidermal-dermal junction proteins and undulation depth, while a blend of palmitoyl oligopeptide and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7 improved subepidermal low-echogenic band thickness, density, and extracellular matrix structure compared to placebo. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2015](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25817264/))
- Palmitoyl tetrapeptide-7, acetyl hexapeptide-8, palmitoyl tripeptide-1, and palmitoyl tetrapeptide-10 significantly increased type III collagen levels in human dermal fibroblasts following UV exposure, with their combination demonstrating a greater effect in vitro and enhancing type I, III, and IV collagen levels in ex vivo skin tissues compared to individual components. ([International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2026](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42683869/))

## What reviewers say

Based on limited data, users highly praise this biphasic night serum for its ability to smooth skin texture and soften fine lines, with many noting it's gentle and non-irritating, even for sensitive skin. While most users experience positive anti-aging results and appreciate its elegant texture, some find the price point to be high and a few report a short shelf life or slow results for deeper wrinkles.

- Liked: Gentle & non-irritating (often mentioned)
- Liked: Smoother skin texture (often mentioned)
- Liked: Elegant texture (sometimes noted)
- Liked: Visible anti-aging (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: High price point (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Initial mild irritation (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Short shelf life (rarely noted)
- Disliked: Slow results for some (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use your serum as part of your PM routine. Start using it 3 times a week and move to daily use if your skin likes it.
- Apply the serum after cleansing and toner, and right before your moisturizer.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the serum into your skin and wait a minute ⏳for it to soak in.
- Apply the serum on clean and dry skin since your skin is not sensitive.
- Always do a patch test before using the serum for the first time, and avoid the eye area .
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/c879dda8655a61c19d3d8c9ebad6b06d.mp4

## Questions and answers

### How well does ISDIN Retinal Intense work for combination skin?

ISDIN Retinal Intense Serum offers moderate benefits for combination skin, as glycerin and niacinamide help manage oily shine while retinaldehyde and bakuchiol work to smooth fine lines. This treatment needs effective ingredients like niacinamide, propolis, and zinc PCA that provide optimal hydration and balance without excess oiliness.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Which ingredients make this serum a good fit for combination skin?

Glycerin and niacinamide make this serum a good fit by providing hydration and oil control to help manage oily shine on combination skin. To fit this skin type even better, products of this type need effective ingredients like propolis or zinc PCA that regulate oiliness, enhance radiance, and provide hydration without causing excess oiliness or dryness.
Sources: [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### What does Retinal do for combination skin?

Retinal helps smooth the skin and reduces signs of aging or breakouts when used regularly. It is unlikely to cause severe irritation when introduced gradually, keeping combination skin feeling calm and smooth.
Sources: [European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences, 2014](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25219827/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21649816/)

### What does Niacinamide do for combination skin?

Niacinamide helps balance oily areas by reducing excess shine and pore size while keeping dry patches hydrated and smooth. It also works to calm redness and even out skin tone, making it very suitable for combination skin.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12100180/), [Antioxidants, 2021](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34439563/)

### Where does this serum go in a skincare routine for combination skin?

This treatment goes in the evening routine after cleansing and before moisturizing, which keeps application simple and safer around sun exposure. Combination skin needs ingredients like niacinamide for oil control and hydration, along with gentle anti-aging actives to smooth fine lines without causing irritation.

### Can I use this serum with AHA, and in what order?

It is best to use this serum and AHA on different nights to keep your skin calm and avoid irritation. Because both ingredients are strong, separating them helps protect your skin barrier while still smoothing fine lines and managing oily shine.

### How often should I use this serum?

Use this serum in the evening as part of your nighttime routine. Combination skin needs ingredients like niacinamide for oil control and glycerin for hydration to keep it balanced while using active treatments.

### Can this serum clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for combination skin?

This serum is unlikely to cause breakouts or clog pores for your combination skin because it has an excellent safety profile with no harsh or heavy ingredients. However, because it contains retinaldehyde, it may cause initial mild irritation while your skin gets used to it. Combination skin of this type needs lightweight hydrators and oil-controlling ingredients like glycerin and niacinamide to keep pores clear.
Sources: [The British Journal of Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29947134/), [Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28860834/)

### Is this serum fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

It contains fragrance (parfum) and drying alcohol (alcohol denat).

## Alternatives for combination skin

- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €37.99 at Amazon
- [Augustinus Bader The Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/augustinus-bader/the-serum/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €380.10 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €129.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [Dr. Althea Amino Acid Gentle Bubble Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/dr-althea/amino-acid-gentle-bubble-cleanser/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €13.50 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [La Mer The Tonic](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/la-mer/the-tonic/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €103.91 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [COSRX Oil-Free Ultra-Moisturizing Lotion with Birch Sap](https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/cosrx/oil-free-ultra-moisturizing-lotion-with-birch-sap/for/combination-skin) — Superior fit — €18.47 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.it: €69.00 (https://www.amazon.it/dp/B0BD9DK6SC?tag=lovi-care-web-product09-21&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 4 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Water, Dimethicone, Dibutyl Adipate, Niacinamide, Isoamyl Laurate, Lauryl Peg Ppg-18 18 Methicone, Glycerin, Propanediol, Dimethicone Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Alcohol Denat, Bakuchiol, 2-Hexanediol, Pentylene Glycol, Caprylic Capric Triglyceride, Ethylcellulose, Hydroxyacetophenone, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, 4-T-Butylcyclohexanol, Caprylyl Glycol, Parfum, Sodium Acrylates Crosspolymer-2, Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6, Vigna Aconitifolia Seed Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate, Tocopherol, Citric Acid, Xanthan Gum, Maltodextrin, Melatonin, Retinal Retinaldehyde, Silica, Disodium Edta, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Ci 77891 Titanium Dioxide, Ascorbic Acid, T-Butyl Alcohol, Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Extract Rosemary Leaf Extract, Palmitoyl Tetrapeptide-7, Tin Oxide, Chrysin
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin (this page)
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/isdin/retinal-intense-serum/for/combination-skin